Tishbe is a location mentioned in the Bible as the hometown of the prophet Elijah, one of the most significant figures in the Old Testament. The name "Tishbe" is derived from the Hebrew word "Tishbi," which is often associated with the region of Gilead. The exact location of Tishbe is not definitively known, but it is traditionally believed to be situated in the mountainous region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to Tishbe is found in 1 Kings 17:1, where Elijah is introduced: "Now Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, 'As the LORD, the God of Israel, lives, before whom I stand, there will be neither dew nor rain in these years except at my word.'" . This verse establishes Elijah's origin and his role as a prophet during the reign of King Ahab in the northern kingdom of Israel.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Tishbe's association with Gilead places it in a region known for its rugged terrain and pastoral lifestyle. Gilead was a fertile area, often mentioned in the Bible for its balm and other natural resources. The inhabitants of Gilead, including those from Tishbe, were likely engaged in agriculture and livestock rearing, which may have influenced Elijah's character and his later prophetic ministry.

Elijah's Ministry:

Elijah's connection to Tishbe is significant in understanding his prophetic mission. As a Tishbite, Elijah emerged from a relatively obscure and rural background to confront the idolatry and moral decay of Israel under Ahab and Jezebel. His ministry was marked by miraculous events, including the multiplication of the widow's oil and flour (1 Kings 17:14-16), the raising of the widow's son (1 Kings 17:22), and the dramatic contest on Mount Carmel against the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:20-40).

Theological Significance:

Elijah's identity as a Tishbite underscores the biblical theme that God often chooses unlikely individuals from humble origins to accomplish His purposes. Elijah's life and ministry exemplify faithfulness, courage, and the power of prayer, as seen in James 5:17-18: "Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth yielded its crops." .

Legacy:

Elijah's association with Tishbe has left a lasting legacy in both Jewish and Christian traditions. He is revered as a model of prophetic zeal and is often invoked in discussions of spiritual revival and reform. His anticipated return, as prophesied in Malachi 4:5, is a key element in eschatological expectations, further cementing his importance in biblical history.

In summary, Tishbe, though a minor geographical reference, is integral to the narrative of Elijah, whose life and ministry continue to inspire believers to stand firm in their faith and to trust in God's sovereign power.

Elijah and the Widow's Son
... Then Elijah from Tishbe in Gilead said to Ahab, "As surely as Jehovah the God of
Israel lives, whom I serve, there shall be no dew nor rain for years except as ...
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Tishbe (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Tishbe (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 17:1 And Elijah
the Tishbite, of Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, By the ...
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Tishbite (6 Occurrences)

/t/tishbite.htm - 9k

Tirzah (17 Occurrences)

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Summary of the Book of 1 Kings - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org

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